The scientific work accomplished in 40 years through in-house research, citizen science projects, research internships, and partner research institutions has led to many publications including reports, species lists, guides, peer-reviewed articles, and books. Some to high- light include The Ecology and History of Jug Bay: A Volunteer’s Guide , A Guide to the Amphibians and Reptiles of Jug Bay , The Tidal Freshwater Wetlands , and Nature’s Calendar among others. The Sanctuary has also been a place of discovery. In 1990, 39 twin- ing milkweed ( Matelia carolinensis ) plants, considered extinct in Maryland, were rediscovered in the Sanctuary by naturalist Holly Budd. Similarly, a new species of earthworm ( Diplocardia patuxentis ) was discovered in Jug Bay and named by Katalyn Szlavecz from Johns Hopkins University. In 2018, Drs. Don Harvey and Timothy McMahon found a large nest aggregation of a very small bee, Perdita bradleyi , which had been found only once before in Maryland. In association with this nesting area they also found a rare cleptoparasite ( Sphecodes brachycephalus ), which also resulted in a new record for Maryland. In the realm of archaeology, in 2019 County archaeologists discovered a rare Clovis Point dating to up to 13,000 years ago. In 2021, they uncovered an important 17th-century archaeological site at the Jug Bay River Farm property. When talking about science, the discussion of information is as important as its dissemination. In addition to publications and its use in educational programming, the Sanctuary is proud to have collabo- rated with partners to start the local Patuxent River Conference (PAXCON). Beginning in 2015, nine editions of PAXCON have enabled local resource managers, educators, restoration practitio- ners, scientists, and anyone interested to share information and discuss issues facing the Patuxent River and other local watersheds. At the Sanctuary level, staff has organized themed conferences, workshops, and more recently Citizen Science Summits as venues for sharing information. Public Access/Facilities The Sanctuary has operated since the beginning as a limited-use and limited-access natural area. Use is based on a passive recreation philosophy, and public access is limited to allow nature time to rest. This model of operation has been key to defining the Sanctuary as we know it today and in fulfilling its protection and conservation goals. Visitors to the Sanctuary currently enjoy amenities such as a Visitor Center and exhibit room, natural trails, boardwalks, observa- tion decks, gardens, picnic and meeting spaces. This was not always the case: Infrastructure has been added through the years to enhance the visitors’ experience and enjoyment of the Park. The list on this page includes the incorporation of some of the key features the public continues to enjoy today. Looking To The Future We look forward to these ongoing and exciting projects: Jug Bay Education, Research, and Discovery (JBERD) Field Station This project started in 2020 with the main goal of building overnight facilities at the Jug Bay Emory Waters Nature Preserve. These facili- ties will support environmental research, outdoor education, the
enjoyment of nature, and the conservation of Sanctuary’s valuable habitats. The complex will include eight rustic cabins, a pavilion, bathhouse, fire pit, parking area, and an associated five-spot camp- ground. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Once the project is fully finished, this section of the Sanctuary will be open to the public. Stream and Shoreline Restoration Project This project will restore three highly eroded headwater streams and a section of shoreline at the Jug Bay Emory Waters Nature Preserve. The design phase started in 2023, and the construction phase is scheduled to start in 2026. In addition to the direct benefits from habitat restoration, this project will provide ample opportunities for research and education. Archaeology Research and Outreach The Sanctuary looks forward to continuing collaboration with archae- ologists from the Anne Arundel County’s Cultural Resources Section, Office of Planning & Zoning, to continue research and outreach efforts on Jug Bay’s rich Native and African American heritage. After 40 years of inspiring achievements, Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary invites all of you to be part of building the next 40 years of exciting education, research, and stewardship successes!
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WINTER 2025-26
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